Explore records, photographs, and stories from the people and places that shaped our community.
Search Our DatabaseWelcome to the Benton County Historical Society & Museum
Preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage of Benton County, Minnesota since 1949.
Upcoming Event
Stories Among the Stones: A Lantern Tour of the Benton County Cemetery — Part II
October 15, 2026 • 5:30 PM • Benton County Cemetery
Join us for Part II of our popular lantern tour of the Benton County Cemetery — uncovering stories of those who came before us, including victims of the 1886 Cyclone and early settlers. Post-tour social hour with refreshments and a viewing of our authentic 1880s funeral coach.
📅 Today in History
United States
• 1868 Ulysses Grant (R) wins presidential election
• 1917 First class mail now costs $0.03
Minnesota
• Minnesota’s new state flag and seal took effect on May 11, 2024.
• Minnesota has 6,564 rivers and streams.
Benton County
• German settlers developed areas around Duelm and Mayhew Lake in Benton County.
• Another influenza outbreak hit Benton County in early 1919.